The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Commission have launched expanded advisory support to accelerate Europe’s clean energy transition and strengthen energy autonomy in regions historically dependent on coal, peat, and oil shale. Through the Technical Assistance for a Green Energy Transition (TARGET) programme, the initiative provides free expert guidance to help regions identify, prepare, and structure clean energy and energy efficiency projects that can attract investment and create sustainable jobs.
The TARGET programme is designed to improve project quality, build local capacity, and develop investment-ready pipelines aligned with long-term decarbonisation goals. It also helps regions assess financing needs, strengthen institutional readiness, and identify suitable funding sources to support their transition toward a low-carbon economy.
Under the latest phase of the programme, four new assignments have been launched in the Czech Republic, Poland, Sweden, and Romania. These assignments focus on supporting regions undergoing coal-to-green transitions by analysing economic opportunities, identifying barriers, and mapping out pathways for sustainable development and clean energy investment.
In the Ústí Region of the Czech Republic, the programme will assess the economic potential of transitioning away from coal, including redevelopment of former mining sites, environmental restoration needs, and opportunities in renewable energy such as geothermal, solar, and hydropower. It will also explore prospects for clean technology manufacturing and job creation.
In Poland’s Turow subregion, EIB Advisory will develop a strategic study outlining development opportunities and structural challenges in shifting toward a net-zero economy. The work will include an investment roadmap focused on high job creation potential and leveraging existing local industrial strengths.
In Sweden’s Norrbotten region, the assignment will evaluate the impacts of transitioning from fossil-based energy systems, including land-use challenges, renewable energy expansion, labour market shifts, and housing needs. It will also assess opportunities for clean technology manufacturing and alignment with existing industrial infrastructure.
In Romania’s Gorj region, the focus will be on supporting clean energy project development and helping redeploy skills from the coal sector into new industries. The programme will explore opportunities such as solar energy on former mining land, geothermal systems, hydrogen technologies, grid upgrades, and clean industrial manufacturing, while strengthening the local investment pipeline.
Overall, the TARGET initiative aims to ensure that coal-dependent regions are equipped with practical tools, technical expertise, and investment pathways to support a just and sustainable transition. It reflects the EIB’s broader advisory role in mobilising finance, building capacity, and accelerating climate-aligned development across the European Union.
